Two things today...

Two things today...

1.  Choose Kind

When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind.  -Dr. Wayne Dyer

If anyone saw the movie Wonder this weekend, you met a teacher who had a monthly precept (a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought).  I was thinking about the upcoming weeks, both at home and at school, and how things can get a little hectic.  I challenge you to remember this precept, in your interactions with friends, families, and colleagues - this can be a stressful time of year, so choose kind.  And, I'd highly recommend that you see the movie if you haven't already!

2. We have a lot of learning coming up this week!

Tuesday, November 28th
Data Roll Thrus: Focus on Reading

Wednesday, November 29th
Staff Meeting: Digital Communication: Jen Lotze (Raider Portal)

Friday, December 1st
Team Meetings: Focus on Math
Lisa Skoyen will meet with each team during your common planning time, to go over math updates and answer any questions, in preparation for the December 7th Late Start focus on math planning time.

Thankful

During this time of Thanksgiving, I give thanks for the 

Houlton staff ...

• for the commitment and dedication to the students of Houlton Elementary.
• for the sense of humor, willingness to play,  and desire have fun.
• for the growth-mindset of staff members when asked to try something new or different.
• for the fine-tuned ability to monitor and adjust their work with kids so it best meets their needs.
• for making Houlton the place I want to come to every day.

Wishing everyone a blessed Thanksgiving with family and friends, and well-deserved time to do the things you love to do.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Using Student Data to Support Instrutional Decision Making

As we prepare for the upcoming Reading Data Roll Through, I found this paper from the National Associaion of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) - and it really affirms the work we are doing.  So, I wanted to share it - and celebrate the best practices we are implementing every day.

✔ Make data part of on ongoing cycle of instrutional improvement

Key words: variety of data, interpret, develop hypotheses, use data to guide

✔ Establish a clear vision for schoolwide data use

Key words: critical teaching and learning concepts, develop a plan, ongoing

✔ Provide supports that foster a data-driven culture within the school

Key words: targeted professional learning, discussion, problem solving, collaboration

I look forward to meeting with teams, as well as other staff that work with our students, during our roll through on Thursday.  Come prepared to interpret, problem solve, collaborate and develop!

Family Communication

As we near the end of the 1st Trimester, 

a quick reminder about the importance of communication with parents:

Communicate Often and in Various Forms

Provide information about what's going on in your class (weekly would be ideal): what students are learning, what they've accomplished, what you're excited about, what they're excited about, and the learning and growth you're seeing. This can be done via newsletters, class or individual emails, sending photos, or face to face. Suggest things that they might ask their child about: "Ask them to tell you about what they learned last week about mealworms," or "Ask them to read you the haiku they wrote."

Make a Positive Phone Call Home (this one has a HUGE impact!)

If you have a self-contained class, call all homes within the first couple of weeks and then at regular intervals throughout the year. If you teach many students, identify those students who perhaps need a positive call home.

Ask Questions about the Child

"What kinds of things does he enjoy doing outside of school? Who are the special people in her life -- family or family friends? What do you think are her best characteristics? What was he like as a little boy?" Demonstrate an interest in knowing your student. Really listen. They know a whole lot about their kid.

Let Parents Know How They Can Help

Many want to help but especially as kids get older, parents aren't asked for help as often and don't know what to do. There's always some way they can help in the classroom. Provide specific ways parents can support their child at home, too. "You can help your child with her math homework by asking her to explain how she got an answer," or "As you're reading stories at night, ask your child to make predictions. This strengthens reading comprehension."

Thank Parents

Thank them for their help, both individually and publicly for their support, perhaps in your weekly newsletter. Recognize what they do to help your class, and/or at home, and how it's impacting students.